Peter Douglas
ONE of New Zealand’s most celebrated, enduring rock bands is tuning up for a special gig at the Sooki Lounge on Thursday, 10 December.
After the release of their acclaimed ninth studio album, FVEY, Shihad will be delivering their renowned raw sound to plenty of eager punters.
Frontman Jon Toogood told the Mail that audiences could expect a mix of old Shihad favourites and songs from the new album, a release he described as the band’s “best in 10 years” and one of which the members were exceptionally proud.
Critics seem to agree, too, with the album being described as one of their ‘angriest’ and greatest.
Toogood said it had been an incredible journey for the band, which has now notched up 25 years together, not to mention plenty of accolades and album sales.
“I remember way back in high school when we were all just dweebs playing in a band, hanging out in the music room all day,” he said.
“We were in the music room so much, they just gave us the keys.
Founding members Toogood, Phil Knight and Tom Larkins share a special bond, after forming the band in their early teens.
“We are a family … we probably don’t see as much of each other as we used to, but as a band we’re tight,” he said.
The trio grew up idolising bands such as AC/DC and Metallica and have gone on to support both icons in front of packed stadiums.
In fact, the Sooki Lounge show will be Shihad’s final gig before heading off to tour New Zealand with AC/DC.
Toogood said fans could expect plenty of what they had come to love about the band, including their renowned high-energy performances.
Although, any crowd-surfing or guitar-breaking of earlier times seems to be off the agenda.
“No way, I’ve got a Martin D-18 guitar that’s probably worth more than I am,” Toogood said.
“I want to play it, not break it.”
Sooki Lounge is located at 1648 Burwood Highway, Belgrave.
For more information, call (03) 9754 7567.
